Tiles are crucial in setting the tone of your apartment. They are a reflection of your style and preferences. While aesthetics is important, the utility of the tiles should not be disregarded. Different areas of your house will have different requirements. For example, bathroom and kitchen tiles must be water-resistant and robust, able to handle high moisture levels. In contrast, tiles in the living room and bedrooms should prioritize both comfort and design. When looking for the best option available, there are several factors to consider.
Popular Material Options
Picking the right material ensures that your tiles will remain durable for many years. Hardness and resistance to abrasion are critical here, especially for tiles used outdoors or in high-traffic areas.
Ceramics
When on the hunt for an alternative that can withstand daily wear and tear for many years to come, shop for elegant and durable ceramic tiles Canada wide. Renowned for their longevity, aesthetic appeal, and wide range of applications, ceramic tiles have long been a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Made from natural clay and hardened by heat, this versatile material offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for flooring, walls, and countertops. However, one of the most appealing qualities of ceramic tiles is their durability. Resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture, they are ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Their hard surface makes them easy to clean, often requiring just a quick sweep and mop to maintain their appearance.
The ceramic tile varieties also contribute to healthier interiors. Their non-porous surface resists allergens such as dust and mould, making them a great option for allergy-sensitive households. Furthermore, because they are often made from natural materials and can be recycled, these are a terrific option for environmentally friendly households.
The aesthetic versatility is another major advantage of ceramics. Available in a vast array of colours, textures, shapes, and finishes, they can mimic the look of stone, wood, or even concrete. This allows homeowners and designers to achieve a wide range of styles—from rustic charm to modern minimalism—without compromising on performance or budget.
Installation and replacement are relatively straightforward, although it’s recommended to use a professional installer for best results. When properly installed and maintained, ceramic tiles can last for decades, offering long-term value. So, whether renovating your bathroom or designing your new kitchen, when shopping for ceramic tiles Canada wide, you’re investing in a durable, beautiful surface that will stand the test of time.
Porcelain
Porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature than ceramic ones, resulting in greater durability and water resistance. They are excellent for indoor and outdoor applications and come in a variety of finishes, sizes, and styles. Porcelain tiles are also compatible with underfloor heating, making them ideal for open-plan living areas, luxury spa bathrooms, and modern kitchens.
Natural Stone
Natural stone tiles, including marble, slate, limestone, granite, and travertine, lend a sense of luxury and elegance to any room. Each stone has distinct properties, making every tile a work of art. As with porcelain tiles, natural stone ones can be utilized with underfloor heating to keep your living spaces warm all year.
Natural stone is also available in a variety of finishes and sizes, allowing you to build a custom wall or floor. However, this material option requires more upkeep than porcelain and ceramic, and it may be more expensive.
Glass
Glass tiles are a popular option for adding colour and shine to splashbacks, showers, and accent walls. They are available in a variety of colours and finishes, such as glossy, frosted, and iridescent.
Available Sizes
Tiles are nowadays available in a range of shapes and sizes, allowing you to create unique designs and visual effects. Standard square tiles are available in sizes ranging from 100×100 mm, 150×150 mm, and 200×200 mm to the popular 600×600 mm and even larger than 1000×1000 mm.
Smaller square options, on the other hand, are commonly used for kitchen splashbacks, however 200×200 mm sizes are increasingly popular for feature flooring due to their pattern effects. Rectangular tiles, such as 600×300 mm, are commonly used for bathroom walls, although bigger XL 600×1200 mm tiles, which have fewer grout lines, are becoming increasingly popular in kitchens and open-plan living rooms. The 600×900 mm size is common for outdoor patios.
Finishes
The tile’s finish affects its appearance, texture, and applicability for various uses. Gloss tiles have a glossy surface that reflects light. The surface has a tiny ripple, and the polish is not flat. These are commonly used for kitchen wall tiles and some budget-friendly floor applications. Matt tiles have a non-reflective surface that creates a more modest and subdued appearance.
They are ideal for high-traffic locations because they are less likely to get scratched. Matt finish tiles have higher slip ratings; it is advised that you use an R10 rating for internal spaces that require slip resistance and an R11 rating for external locations. Textured finishes feature a rough or raised surface, which increases traction and slide resistance. They are frequently utilised in areas where moisture is constantly present, such as bathrooms, showers, and pool decks.
